Can Computers Weave a More Perfect Web?
File(s)
Date
2017-11-16Author
Davis, Christopher
Otto, Carolyn
Wellnitz, Todd
Leitzke, Taren J.
Billman, Kayla D.M.
Reukema, Sarah E.
Metadata
Show full item recordAbstract
We designed a rule-based computer model that used genetic algorithms to create spider webs that closely matched those found in nature. We recreated the classic, 2-dimensional orb web, which is typical of Araneus spiders commonly found in Wisconsin. Using the Java programming language, we closely recreated a model described by Krinkand Vollrath (1997), and then improved upon it by developing increasingly sophisticated simulations that incorporated web-building costs and prey-capture benefits. Four different versions of the simulation program were created so that each version “wove” its webs following different rules. To provide data for comparison, a complimentary field project collected and measured actual spider webs.
Subject
Genetic algorithms
Algorithms
Computer programs
Spider webs
Java
Posters
Permanent Link
http://digital.library.wisc.edu/1793/77342Description
Color poster with text, graphs, and charts.